Good Bye 2011, Hello 2012

 Good bye 2011, in some ways you won't be missed. This has proven to be one of the most difficult years to date. Unfortunately I cannot say it will be the only difficult year from now and into the future. 
 
Although  we have experienced some of the lowest of lows this past year. From Ellie being diagnosed with a brain tumor, to the Chemotherapy not working, to our house flooding, roof leaking (it just all seems so unreal) We have also experienced  the best of the best in family, friends, and strangers. 
  
We have been able to experience love and generosity that people don't ever get to experience in a lifetime. And not only did we experience it, but we were over whelmed by it. 

I  have sat down on multiple occasions to try and find the words to write thank you. Every time it just seems like a simple thank you is not enough. For family, friends, our community, and strangers have given u amazing gifts of love, prayers, and support for Ellie and our family.

 I often get asked "how can you smile, laugh, and joke, in this time of Devastation and sadness" And my response to them is how can you not.

 This brain tumor has given us a gift of making us re prioritize our life and  Focus on the most important things. Don’t get me wrong I have many moments of sadness and tears but mostly we try to make sure we stay positive for Ellie.

 My heart never melted like it does now when I hear the laughter of my children. This is something we as parents we take for granted. I'm here to tell you to enjoy those laughs and smiles, for you never know how many more laughs and smiles you Will get to experience. 

Our Family has grown closer than ever this past year.

 Although we are finishing 2011 on a low note with some difficult news of Ellie’s tumor growth, we are Hopeful that 2012 will bring our family closer and will be filled with joy and Love for one another, and hopefully progress in the right direction to heal Ellie. 

Probably one of the most incredible things, which is hard to believe from 2011, is that my blog hit 35,000 hits since I started it back in March.  These hits give us the power and strength to keep on going.  Thanks for being an Ellie Supporter or/and Fan.  
 
So good bye, good riden's 2011 and here is to 2012 being a better  year

 We  already have amazing things in the works for 2012

 -Ellie's Make-a-wish DreamWorks cruise. 

- Our family was chosen for the fundraiser "one for the kids" cocktail Fundraiser. Please purchase your tickets at Oneforthekids.org 80% of all Proceeds go to our family to help with Ellie's medical costs. 
 
-Ellie and Jake will be standing up in there aunt Myrlee's wedding 
And stay tuned for what is to be an amazing year. 
Happy New Year & Thank You.